Profile

Philosophy

My interest as an architect is in space and light. I enjoy working with clients as creative partners to develop a vision for each project based on how spaces will be used and lived in. Together we focus on practical function and space efficient design with a sensitivity to the surrounding natural environment and urban structures. This open collaborative dialogue greatly supports the success of our work together and each home becomes a tangible expression of the people who inhabit it.

Sustainability

Joining the AIA 2030 Commitment brings greater purpose to the work of architects, because it supports designing in a way that contributes to the long-term beauty, sustainability, and livability of our world. The design community can be part of the global climate solution by transforming the practice of architecture in ways that are holistic and data-driven. Prioritizing energy performance and sustainable materials puts us on the path toward carbon neutral building.

About

I have worked on residential and small commercial projects in the San Francisco Bay Area since 1999. My formal training is German, Swiss and American. I hold a Dipl. Ing. graduate degree in Architecture from Technische Universität Braunschweig, including advanced studies at ETH Zuerich. My European design portfolio includes hospitals, libraries, schools, and memorials. In 1998 I graduated with a Masters in Urban Design from UC Berkeley, with a focus on landscape architecture. I have been a licensed architect in California since 2010, and have taught architecture at the University of San Francisco.

TESTIMONIaLS

“Kerstin was a dream to work with throughout the process of designing and building a beautiful little light-filled guesthouse for me. She has a quiet intelligence and is an excellent listener and collaborator, working to fulfill my vision and also offering her own excellent ideas. Her plans were thoroughly thought out and meticulously detailed, and at the city Design Review Board meeting the reviewer said they were the best he had ever seen. Most importantly I am completely in love with the results, which exceeded expectations!” –ELIZABETH WEISS

“We recommend Kerstin completely. Her design for our kitchen remodel is beautiful and she was very helpful throughout the process, answering all questions and providing advice when needed. We will use her again.” –NANCY K.

“Kerstin is an expert in residential design from start to finish and I felt lucky she had space to work with me on my project. She has years of experience and knows how to navigate coordination with engineers, contractors and the planning and building departments with expertise which is very necessary in the Bay Area if you want to get your permit as soon as possible. Her taste level and attention to detail is fantastic. But most of all she is a wonderful listener, collaborator and always has your best interest at heart. –DEB MACKIM